noun / verb

surge

SURJ/sɜːrdʒ/

A sudden powerful upward or forward movement.

A powerful wave surges forward and crashes against the rocks.

A sudden powerful ocean wave surges forward against a rocky shore, dynamic forceful swelling water.

Etymology

The origin is uncertain, though French sourdre, “rise, swell,” is a probable source. The older sense of a large rolling wave supplies the image behind a sudden, powerful increase or forward movement.

In context

Clear and Present History16:17

Their muskets crack in disciplined volleys, trying to slow the British surge. But the enemy keeps coming.

George Washington's Immortals: The 400 Who Saved the American Army

More examples

The store sees a surge in sales before the holidays.
The crowd surged toward the stage.
She feels a surge of excitement as the curtain rises.

Forms

surge · surges · surged · surging

Similar words

rush: Emphasizes rapid movement rather than an increase in level.
swell: Suggests expansion or rising that may be more gradual.
spike: Emphasizes a sharp increase, often followed by a quick drop.